Electric Vehicle System Overview
Note: The information provided in this chapter is specific to the electric vehicle. Chapters in this manual other than the engine and transmission chapters also apply to the electric vehicle.
Danger: Service and repair of the electric vehicle should only be performed by technicians that have completed HV3 Daimler Safety training. To prevent personal injury or death, or damage to the electric system, do not attempt repairs yourself.
The Saf-T-Liner C2 Electric Vehicle is powered by two batteries, and is a direct drive system with a two-speed transmission; there are no additional transmission or torque coupling devices installed on the vehicle. The motor torque and energy management strategy are controlled by the vehicle control unit (VCU) to maximize the overall efficiency and performance of the vehicle.
Note: If the outside temperature is -13°F (-25°C) or less, the high-voltage battery pack may freeze, and it cannot be charged or provide power to run the vehicle. Move the vehicle to a warmer location.
Notice: To prevent damage to the lithium-ion battery, adhere to the following guidelines:
-
The ambient operating temperature range for the high-voltage battery pack is -22 to 131°F (-30 to 55°C).
-
The maximum ambient storage temperature range is -40 to 140°F (-40 to 60°C). To maximize life of the battery cells, the recommended storage range is -4 to 68°F (-20 to 20°C).
-
While driving, battery cell temperature can be between -22 to 131°F (-30 to 55°C). To maximize life of the battery cells, the recommended temperature range while driving is 59 to 95°F (15 to 35°C). Battery discharge and regen capability may be derated when driving outside the recommended temperature range.
-
When charging the high-voltage battery pack, the cell temperature can be between -4 to 131°F (-20 to 55°C). To maximize life of the battery cells, the recommended temperature range when charging the high-voltage battery pack is 68 to 95°F (20 to 35°C). Battery charging capability may be derated when charging outside the recommended temperature range.
-
Do not use the lithium-ion battery for any purpose other than vehicle operation.
The capacity of the high-voltage battery pack to hold a charge will decrease with time and usage. As the battery pack ages and capacity decreases, the driving range of the vehicle will decrease. This is normal and does not indicate a defect in the high-voltage battery.
Battery pack tests have estimated that battery capacity will be approximately 80% of original capacity after six years—this is only an estimate. This percentage may vary, and could be significantly lower, depending on individual vehicle and high-voltage battery pack usage. The high-voltage battery pack has limited service life. When the battery pack reaches a specific level, the electric vehicle system warning light will illuminate. Owners should take the vehicle to an authorized Freightliner dealer for inspection and possible battery replacement.
Safety Information
Danger: Electric vehicles are equipped with a high-voltage system. Do not attempt any type of electrical work on the vehicle unless you have completed HV3 Daimler Safety Training. Failure to do so could cause severe personal injury or death.
Warning labels are attached to high-voltage vehicle components. Some examples are shown in Fig.. Do not attempt any type of work on these components unless you have completed HV3 Daimler Safety Training.
Fig. 1, High-Voltage Warning Labels
Regenerative Braking
This vehicle is equipped with a regenerative braking system. When the accelerator pedal is released, the electric motor acts as a generator in order to slow down the vehicle, while at the same time, send energy back into the batteries. When the brake pedal is depressed, regenerative braking is automatically blended with the mechanical braking.
The regeneration will feel as if the brake is being lightly applied when the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. The full power of the service brake is always available to the driver, and regenerative braking is automatically shut off during an antilock brake system (ABS) event.
Tire Replacement
Important: When replacing tires, the replacement tires revolutions per mile (RPM) must match the RPM of the original tires installed on the vehicle. This maintains the propulsion drive safety check performed by the drivetrain electronic control unit (ECU). It compares vehicle speed, drive motor (traction) speed, and antilock brake system (ABS) wheel sensor speed. If tires are mounted that differ from the factory RPM, the drivetrain ECU will detect an 'uncontrolled acceleration' event and disable the forward propulsion by shifting the transmission into neutral. Shutting down the vehicle and restarting the system will temporarily clear the fault.